Abstract Louver frame segments are joined mechanically by a chevronshaped connector member which is inserted in restricted passages and extends between abutting frame segments. The legs of the connector member have a compound angular relationship in that they are at an angle to each other in addition to the basic angle attributing the chevron shape. The legs have a nonplanar configuration attributed thereto by upset ribs offset toward like edges of their respective legs. The ribs are flattened in the restricted passages to thereby establish a positive wedge connection between the frame segments and, in being flattened, the ribs of each leg generally expand toward each other to form a hair-line joint between the frame segments.
In combination: first and second frame segments arranged at a predetermined louver angle, said segments also being mitered to form a miter joint therebetween; means defining a restricted passage on said frame segments for receiving a connector member, said means including opposed surfaces extending along the length of said segments for restraining said connector member therebetween, said opposed surfaces having a preselected spacing therebetween; a connector member extending between said frame segments into each of said passages, said connector member characterized by having two generally elongated leg members having a compound angular relationship therebetween in that said legs are arranged with a basic chevron angle therebetween and are further disposed at an angle to each other corresponding to said louver angle; said leg members each initially having a transverse raised rib portion offset laterally from the longitudinal axis of said leg member which rib portion is deformed, after said leg members are placed in said passage, to wedge the outer edges of said leg members between the opposed surfaces of said passages to provide a connection between said frame segments; and means defining an opening adjacent said rib portions intermediate said leg members and extending inwardly generally coextensive with said rib portions so that the edges of said rib portions adjacent said central portion are generally separate from said central portion to permit said leg members to expand, when said rib portions are deformed, in a manner tending to urge said frame segments together along their miter edges.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
248 words
In combination: first and second frame segments arranged at a predetermined louver angle, said segments also being mitered to form a miter joint therebetween; means defining a restricted passage on said frame segments for receiving a connector member, said means including opposed surfaces extending along the length of said segments for restraining said connector member therebetween, said opposed surfaces having a preselected spacing therebetween; a connector member extending between said frame segments into each of said passages, said connector member characterized by having two generally elongated leg members having a compound angular relationship therebetween in that said legs are arranged with a basic chevron angle therebetween and are further disposed at an angle to each other corresponding to said louver angle; said leg members each initially having a transverse raised rib portion offset laterally from the longitudinal axis of said leg member which rib portion is deformed, after said leg members are placed in said passage, to wedge the outer edges of said leg members between the opposed surfaces of said passages to provide a connection between said frame segments; and means defining an opening adjacent said rib portions intermediate said leg members and extending inwardly generally coextensive with said rib portions so that the edges of said rib portions adjacent said central portion are generally separate from said central portion to permit said leg members to expand, when said rib portions are deformed, in a manner tending to urge said frame segments together along their miter edges.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
20 words
The combination of claim 1 wherein said central portion further includes a raised rib portion generally overlying said miter joint.